The late Dr. Rafiq Zakaria, Founder and Chairman of the Maulana Azad Educational trust for over 40 years, a noted educationist, scholar-politician and author of international repute was also known as the architect of modern Aurangabad. Among his varied notable achievements, some can never be forgotten.

His untiring efforts brought water to the city of Aurangabad through the Jayakwadli Dam Project in Paithan. He developed a new industrial area and established CIDCO whereby a new township came into existence called New Aurangabad.

 Thus his grand vision for Aurangabad began to come true, for soon thereafter, the city was recognized as one of the fastest growing cities with the highest industrial growth potential.

Rafiq Zakaria passed away on July 9, 2005. He was laid to rest in a pristine white mazaar, an ode in marble, a few paces inside the Gate of Knowledge, Baab- Ul-Ilm, which is the main entrance to the Campus Dr. Rafiq Zakaria Campus today stands testimony to the enduring efforts of our visionary mentor. The ever enduring aura of the presence of the founder inspires every person associated with the Campus to achieve results both efficiently and effectively in every field of activity.